Thiago Alves vs. Yoshihiro Akiyama added to UFC 149 lineup

The UFC’s upcoming return to Canada further took shape last night with the addition of two new bouts to the July 21 card in Calgary including an intriguing welterweight match-up between Thiago Alves and Yoshihiro Akiyama. Both fighters are known for turning in entertaining efforts but have struggled to find success lately inside the Octagon.

The match-up was confirmed by UFC officials online as was a fight featuring featherweights George Roop (12-9) and Antonio Carvalho (13-5).

A hard-hitting striker, the 19-9 Alves earned a reputation for himself as a devastating finisher during a three-year stretch where he won nine of ten fights including seven straight to earn a crack at the championship. However, since falling to Georges St. Pierre in the title-bout the 28-year old has a losing record with a last-minute submission defeat to Martin Kampmann in his most recent outing.

Akiyama’s career could also use the momentum of a victory after having come up short in four consecutive clashes. Known for his heart and high-level technique, Akiyama has finished twelve of the thirteen opponents he’s beaten including Melvin Manhoef and Denis Kang.

UFC 149 is scheduled to feature 145-pound champ Jose Aldo putting his belt on the line in headlining action though no opponent has been named for the explosive Brazilian’s defense.

I think with a good game plan Akiyama takes this fight, he has a very solid jaw, and great takedowns all he needs to do is use them consistantly, and come in better shape and he has a legit shot at this. And I agree with Rece here as 4 loses in a row should be it, but it seems the WW division is givin the most leway.

Dan Hardy may have won more fights in the UFC than Hardy, but you need to look at who Hardy beat. Split decisions over Marcus Davis and Akihiro Gono, a unanimous over Swick, and a KO of Rory Markham aren’t terribly impressive wins, while Akiyama had to hit the ground running fighting Belcher, Leben, Vitor, Bisping, and Shields. If they put Sexyama against Davis, Gono, Markham, and Swick I’m sure he would have started his run at 4-0 in the UFC too.

Despite being a big Akiyama fan, I do agree he should be done if he loses this.